meteorite

Iron meteorite (probable)

Fe–Ni metal, typically kamacite and taenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark metallic-gray, strongly reflective surface with brown oxidation crust; likely very dense and magnetic. Mohs hardness about 4–5; metallic crystal structure, with no obvious cleavage. The rounded shape and apparent fusion crust suggest atmospheric ablation, though an iron-rich terrestrial rock is also possible.

Identified September 10, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Iron meteorites formed from differentiated asteroid cores, crystallizing billions of years ago—commonly about 4.5 billion years old—and later reached Earth as meteoroids. The exterior melted into a thin fusion crust during atmospheric entry.

Uses & applications

Primarily valued for scientific study, education, and collecting; occasionally cut and polished for jewelry or display. It has little industrial value as scrap compared with its collectible value.

Geological facts

Authentic iron meteorites commonly attract a strong magnet and may reveal Widmanstätten figures after cutting and etching. This photograph alone cannot confirm extraterrestrial origin; slag, magnetite, and hematite can look similar.

Field identification & locations

Check for strong magnetism, unusually high density, a thin dark fusion crust, and a nickel signal using XRF or professional testing; avoid filing valuable surfaces. Common finds include Campo del Cielo (Argentina), Sikhote-Alin (Russia), and Muonionalusta (Sweden).